Larry McDowell
Edgewood Elementary

When Larry McDowell, a retired Shell attorney, approaches Edgewood Elementary School, the students rush to greet him!  Mr. McDowell has been a volunteer at Edgewood for the past 9 years. With a passion for assisting students to be the BEST that they can be, Larry considered tutoring 1st and 2nd graders with no prior experience and considerable trepidation.  He observed for 6 months before trying it on his own. 

Since that time, Larry now trains and recruits others to make a difference in the lives of children.
He dedicates two days of his week to tutor students from two different classes in reading.  He creates innovative games and activities to help the students enjoy learning.  Larry strives to improve the self-esteem of all students with whom he has contact.  Every year the teachers rush to request Mr. McDowell as their classroom volunteer.  In the words of one teacher, “The students at Edgewood adore Mr. McDowell and are constantly writing him letters and making him artwork to show their gratitude.”  Larry McDowell will someday leave an inspiring legacy at Edgewood…to impact the lives of the students so they believe that they have the potential to excel and achieve their dreams.  They are already higher achievers in the areas of his tutoring and have begun to experience academic success. 

Larry has also served on the SBISD Volunteer Advisory Board since its inception in 1999.  Larry’s wisdom, knowledge, skills, commitment, and sense of humor are an asset that Edgewood and SBISD wish to celebrate as December’s Volunteer of the Month.